Be Courteous

January 20, 2008

By Jeremy J. Main

     In the First Epistle of Peter, the apostle wrote to the elect, to fellow Christians. Within the epistle, Peter addressed several groups of people such as “servants” (1 Pet. 2:18-25), “wives” (1 Pet. 3:1-6), and “husbands” (1 Pet. 3:7). Finally, Peter addressed Christians in general, writing, “Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous” (1 Pet. 3:8 NKJV). In our present article, we will focus on the words, “be courteous.”

    The translators of both the King James Version and the New King James Version rendered the Greek term “philophron” of the Textus Receptus as “courteous.” Thayer defined the term as “friendly, kind.” To be courteous, is to be “marked by respect for and consideration of others.” It “implies more actively considerate or dignified politeness” (Merriam-Webster).

    Christians ought to be courteous in every nation. While the particular customs and traditions of courtesy vary from society to society, the concept of courtesy is universal. Be friendly and kind!

    Just as Christianity is a taught religion, courtesy is a taught quality. Parents, are we teaching our children to be friendly and kind, and to show respect and consideration for others? Remember parents, children may learn to be courteous or discourteous simply by watching us!

    People expect others to show “common courtesy.” Regrettably, common courtesy is not always common. Courtesy is demonstrated in our conversation and our conduct. It ought to be shown at such places as around the table, at the marketplace, at work, on the highway, with our friends, family, and wherever we find ourselves. For example, here in the United States, it is common courtesy to listen politely during a conversation. This demonstrates respect and consideration for the one speaking. Other examples might include expressing thanksgiving, returning calls, holding the elevator, opening the door, yielding to drivers, knocking before entering, and lending a helping hand. The opportunities are endless.

    Generally speaking, everyone appreciates courtesy. It is therefore surprising that we as individuals do not devote more time and energy to exercising courtesy. Publius, for example, received and entertained the shipwrecked Paul “courteously” for three days (Acts 28:7).

    Everyone should be courteous. However, we realize that people do not always do what they should. However, if courtesy is to be expected from anyone, it ought to be expected from a Christian. Paul wrote, “be kind to one another” (Eph. 4:32). Are words, such as, “Thank you,” “You are welcome,” and “Excuse me” part of your vocabulary?

Work Cited:

Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary. Merriam-Webster Incorporated, 2000.

Thayer, Joseph. Thayer’s Greek Definitions.